Employment Services

CalWORKs

The California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program gives time-limited cash assistance to families with children. CalWORKs recipients may also be able to get Medi-Cal and CalFresh (Food Stamp) benefits. Cash benefits are based on the number of people in the family, with any other sources of income considered. CalWORKs is the state implementation of the Federal Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program.

The CalWORKs programs give cash aid and services to families with eligible, needy children who are deprived because of the absence, disability or death of a parent, or unemployment of the principal earner when both parents are in the home. Needy caretaker relatives of a child getting either Foster Care or Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment Program benefits may also receive cash aid. The amount of a family's monthly assistance payment can depend on many factors, including the number of eligible people and special needs of family members.

CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work

Welfare-to-Work is an Employment and Training Program that promotes self-sufficiency. CalWORKs recipients are provided job search and employment-related services. Employment services such as counseling, job development, preparation and training, and supportive services such as help with childcare, transportation, work clothes and tools, are offered. Services are also available to help with barriers to getting a job, such as substance abuse, domestic violence, mental health and legal issues. Those receiving CalWORKs cash aid must participate in the Welfare-to-Work Program unless determined to be exempt. People may be exempt if they have a verified reason (for example, being too ill or incapacitated to work, or caring for an incapacitated person).

Who Can Apply for Assistance?

Everyone has the right to apply for CalWORKs assistance. A person who appears ineligible must still be allowed to exercise his/her right to apply.

How Do I Apply for CalWORKs?

Applications can be done by Phone, In-Person, or via US Mail, or On-Line.